Alvin

This town, just south of Houston in Brazoria County, has grown from a prairie town to a rice and oil center, into the city it is today. Visitors enjoy antique shopping, bass fishing, birding, nature trails, golf, camping, scuba diving and even skydiving.

During the spring, Shimek Gardens is spectacular with more than 850 varieties of daylilies and roses. On C.R. 237 one mile west of the city. 281/331-4395.

Visit Froberg Farms for homegrown fruits and vegetables. Visitors can pick their own items. Tours are available by request Mon.-Fri. in May and Nov. On C.R. 190. 281/585-3531.

Alvin also is part of The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, which winds along the Texas coast. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/wildlifetrails.